Kildare hold off Dublin to take Leinster U20 crown

A steely performance and excellent accuracy in front of the posts saw Kildare crowned U20 Leinster Football Champions this evening after a 0-17 to 0-15 victory over Dublin.

Kildare couldn't have asked for a better start with two points straight within the first ninety seconds.

Ryan O’Dwyer responded for the Dubs but Kildare defence well on top in the early stages with Athy man James McGrath swallowing up everything that came anywhere near the half back line early on.

A brilliant turnover from the Kildare defence moments later led to a lightening quick counter and wonderful individual score from Tommy Gill. Kildare caused Dublin problems on the break all evening with their turnover of ball close to goal and then lightening quick attack on the break.

Kildare were playing with a real determination and belief in their play as the first half progressed.

Dublin were sticking to their task and three unanswered points from O’Dwyer and Murray left just one between the sides with twenty minutes played.

Adam Fanning and Ryan O’Dwyer were in a league of their own in the opening half in terms of point scoring and exchanged two sublime scores from distance with the crowd in awe.

With just a minute remaining in the opening half Luke Breathnach showed electric pace before levelling the game with a fine score off his left to leave the side all square with 0-08 apiece at half time.

The second half began with the same recurring pattern as the first had ended with. Both sets of players booming incredible individual points from distance with players all across the pitch showing off their skill.

First was Fionn Murray who showed sublime skill to kick 45 metre free from the ground straight over the bar followed by a huge effort from distance by Adam